Your Fishing Escape

If you want to have an adventure filled vacation that is brimming with excitement you should try a deep sea fishing trip. All the seas and oceans have the most beautiful and enchanting fish you never thought existed. However, it is the well known game that is what attracts anglers from around the world. Many people like the sport of fishing just for the sake of being able to laze around in the shade by the lake or on the banks of a river, some will also go the distance and hire a boat out to sea for a few days to get a feel of the flow of adrenalin when they have to pull in and land the giant Marlin or shark.
You will be able to do all this if you plan a deep sea fishing vacation on one of the many deep sea charter boats available. You could choose to go out on your own, if you have the necessary permits and experience, or you can choose to have an experienced guide take you out to the deep blue sea for a fun filled fishing experience.

If you are a new comer to the sport of fishing, learning can be fun. The best way to go about learning about deep sea fishing is to get some good books and magazines and begin from there. Then you can get yourself some good fishing tackle and hire a seasoned guide to take you out to sea and give you some instructions on the job.

Many people around the world are so hooked to the sport of deep sea fishing that they make it a point to go out to sea and bring in a fish or two at least a couple of times a year if not more. The deep sea can be the most perfect picture for your living room, and if the picture can have a prized trophy you managed to catch during one of your deep sea fishing trips you will want to go out every time you look at the picture and the trophy.

You choose how you want to spend your deep sea fishing trip. You could make it out to be a very adventurous sporting event or you can make of it a great way to relax out under the sun and in the sea breeze, and perhaps catch a fish or two on the hook and line you leave dangling overboard. Some people go at it with gusto and do not want to return unless they have bagged a trophy such as a big Marlin or Sailfish. Some anglers even catch a few sea fish they cook and eat on the boat itself, and bring some fish in for the family as well.

I will attempt to give you a fishing report from Mazatlan on January 20, 2009. The beaches are dead here and there are not many people around. We checked out the fishing and the reports were good. A few sails, the occasional dolphin, a tuna here and there, but many Striped Marlin around. Enrique Izquierdo, the GM of the Neto’s Fleet, approaches me on the dock. He has a panga ready to go for the next day. The panga will come with a Cpt., mate and is a typical 27 foot, center counsel with 2 Evinrude 90’s on it. I book it!

We leave the dock at 6:25am…we are the first ones out of the harbor…a good thing in my book. We run on a heading of 200 degrees until 7:30am. We are now approximately 22 miles out and set the lines. We are running baits on the outriggers, lures on the short corners, and one more bait up the middle…but short.

After trolling for about 30 minutes, I spot a tail in the water at about 250 yards. I point the heading to the Cpt. and we are off. The Marlin sees the baits and comes a running. Bam…HOOK-UP! He inhales the bait, so there is not much of a fight. One in the box!

We re-set and keep heading out. Not more than 10 minutes, I spot 4 tails in the air right in front of us. They are all sails, but after checking us out, they decide they are not interested. We continue on.

I’m looking back behind the boat and spot another Marlin. We circle back and this guy gives us a knock-down and a good look. Finally, on the third circle, he decides this is right for him. Bam…another one is inhaled. This one refuses to jump because he is hooked so deep. He gets the bat on the head and we now have our second Marlin of the day. We see several swirls near the boat and circle the areas, but no takers. It is now 10:00am and we have 2 in the boat, circled 4 sails and had other action. By the way, when I was bringing the second Marlin to the boat, I thought I saw something in the water. Turns out to be a school of giant squid. They came right up to the boat and the mate dropped a mullet on them. Twice he had a hook-up, but twice they managed to get free. These squid were in the 4-5 foot category…something I have never seen before. They were capable of biting a mullet in half…apparently, they have teeth!

We are on some birds and we cannot figure out what the birds are on. They act like tuna, but we have no takers. We have passed 5 commercial tuna boats and 1 helicopter…must be something in the area!! By now, the Cpt. has called the other boats and we have company. We split from the crowd (about 5 other boats) and head out further. The blue water was at 25 miles yesterday, but we hit 30 miles and the water was clear/green. Around noon, we suddenly had a visitor on the baits. It was the first fish of the day that we did not tail. This Marlin hit one outrigger (missed) and then went for the other one. Another swing and a miss on this one and we were on our third circle. About the time we were giving up and heading out, he appeared on the middle short bait. Bang…another hook-up! He was close to boat and kept coming toward us. I thought he was just going to give up, but when he saw the boat, he wanted no part of it. He took off and ran about 300 yards out in no time. I’m looking at the line heading directly behind the boat and see this fish jump off the starboard side and was beginning to think it was another fish. NOPE, it was my fish dancing on the horizon and I was beginning to worry about line stretch. This fish had at least 6 good jumps in him before I had to work him all the way back to the boat. It took me 30 minutes to get him there. Turned out he was barely hooked in the corner of the jaw and he did not want to come to the boat. This had to be the toughest Striper I have ever had to deal with. Number 3 was stacked in the boat for the ride home. We trolled a bit further and passed another school of giant squid. One took a run at the outrigger, but knocked it down and kept on going. We trolled in for a few miles and then pulled the lines. It was a great day of fishing. We hit the dock at 2:30pm and called it a day. Cpt. Rigo and first mate Isaac were good guys to fish with. I would highly recommend them and this fleet to anyone. Good guys and a great day of fishing…can’t beat that!!!
Steve Leighton

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Neto’s Fleet
Sport Fishing Trips in Mazatlan Mexico

Deep sea fishing is a wonderful and extremely enjoyable activity. Here are some tips that will make your salt water fishing adventure even better.

1. Watch the signs

If you see birds e.g. Seagulls that are feasting on small bait-type fishes, there are probably larger game-type fish below the surface of the water. Also, look for floating wood or debris. In most cases when you chance upon a large floating wood, you would find a large game fish in the area even encountering dolphin.

2. Stop, Snook and Listen

Fishing for snooks is quite similar as fishing for bass. Snooks like to be around ledges, posts and rocks.

3. Crabs for full moon

During full moons use soft crab imitations as bait. That’s the time when crabs shed their shells and stripers come looking for them.

4. If you’re looking for tunas, find the dolphins

Yellowfin tuna are usually found schooling with dolphins. So if you see a group of dolphins, chances are there are some tuna in the area.

5. Cut and Burn

If you have trouble cutting through a spiderwire braid, try using a lighter or a match.

6. Good Reef

The best place to fish is near reefs since big game fish feed on fish that live on reefs.

7. The Circle Hook

Use a circle hook if you would like a higher hook up ratio. These hooks guarantees more catch, because of the minute gap, and the reverse point. They are generally better for the fish since they do not hook in the gut just the lip.

8. Don’t have sea legs

Watch the horizon and stay on deck. These would generally help you if you’re having trouble with sea sickness: Stay away from the boat fumes, breathing it only exacerbates the problem.

9. Anchors away

When your anchor is stuck at the bottom, try attaching a float to it. Return after the tide has changed in direction. This should be enough to loosen the anchor.

10. Fish where the fish are

A lot of fisherman have the idea that they should be catching their live baits over the reefs before going to deep waters. If the live baits are not in the area you’re planning to catch the larger games, then why would you come up with the idea that the large fish are there. Wouldn’t they be in the area where the bait fish are?

Deep sea fishing is a wonderful and extremely enjoyable activity. Here are some tips that will make your salt water fishing adventure even better.

1. Watch the signs

If you see birds e.g. Seagulls that are feasting on small bait-type fishes, there are probably larger game-type fish below the surface of the water. Also, look for floating wood or debris. In most cases when you chance upon a large floating wood, you would find a large game fish in the area even encountering dolphin.

2. Stop, Snook and Listen

Fishing for snooks is quite similar as fishing for bass. Snooks like to be around ledges, posts and rocks.

3. Crabs for full moon

During full moons use soft crab imitations as bait. That’s the time when crabs shed their shells and stripers come looking for them.

4. If you’re looking for tunas, find the dolphins

Yellowfin tuna are usually found schooling with dolphins. So if you see a group of dolphins, chances are there are some tuna in the area.

5. Cut and Burn

If you have trouble cutting through a spiderwire braid, try using a lighter or a match.

6. Good Reef

The best place to fish is near reefs since big game fish feed on fish that live on reefs.

7. The Circle Hook

Use a circle hook if you would like a higher hook up ratio. These hooks guarantees more catch, because of the minute gap, and the reverse point. They are generally better for the fish since they do not hook in the gut just the lip.

8. Don’t have sea legs

Watch the horizon and stay on deck. These would generally help you if you’re having trouble with sea sickness: Stay away from the boat fumes, breathing it only exacerbates the problem.

9. Anchors away

When your anchor is stuck at the bottom, try attaching a float to it. Return after the tide has changed in direction. This should be enough to loosen the anchor.

10. Fish where the fish are

A lot of fisherman have the idea that they should be catching their live baits over the reefs before going to deep waters. If the live baits are not in the area you’re planning to catch the larger games, then why would you come up with the idea that the large fish are there. Wouldn’t they be in the area where the bait fish are?

There’s nothing like deep sea fishing! First, there’s the solitude and peace you find when you’re out in the ocean with your best buds. Then there’s the mental game, the strategy of finding, baiting, and winning the prize. It’s a challenge where success can truly change the life of the fisherman. And failure is no failure at all – you’ve still had hours of peaceful, glorious communion with the mother of nature, the mysterious ocean.

If you’re thinking of doing some deep sea fishing, there are a few things you should know before you go:

1. Grow sea legs!

The quickest way to spoil a deep sea fishing adventure is sea sickness. It’s a form of motion sickness, dominated by nausea, vomiting, and vertigo. To avoid sea sickness, stay away from the boat fumes. Keep your eyes on the horizon as much as possible, and stay on deck. Below deck, the constant motion can overcome you. If it gets really bad, move to the center of the boat where rolling is at a minimum. Or lie down on your back and close your eyes until you have your bearings. Most of all, breathe lots of fresh air – a substance in abundance on the deck of the boat.

2. Read the sea signs

Birds like seagulls feast on small fishes, as do larger game fishes. So birds are a good indicator that your prey lies below. Watch for floating wood and debris. Small fish find shelter there, so the big guys won’t be far away.

3. Snoop for Snook

The Snook is a big fish with a protruding lower jaw and large black stripes running from behind the gills to the tail. They’re a strong fish that can grow up to 50 pounds. Ranging in the Western Atlantic from South Carolina to Brazil, snook are a thrill to catch. Live shrimp are the best bait to use when you’re deep sea fishing for snook. Look around ledges, posts, and rocks to find this catch.

4. Moon the Crabs

Soft imitation crabs are a great bait during full moons. In nature, that’s when they shed their shells, when they’re a favorite treat for striped bass.

5. Find the dolphin, find the tuna

Yellowfin tuna often school with dolphins, porpoises, whales, and whale sharks. So if you spot a group of any of these, there are likely to be some tuna nearby. Found in tropical and sub-tropical waters, yellowfin are a prize catch due to their speed and strength. They’re a challenging catch that’s delicious too.

6. Burn the braid

Deep sea fishers use spiderwire because it’s like a spider’s web – it’s easier to feel when a fish takes the bait. But sometimes, it’s hard to cut. If you’re having trouble cutting a spiderwire braid, try burning it with the flame of a lighter or match.

7. Seek the reef

The best place to find the best deep sea fish is near a reef. Many coastal cultures get up to 25% of their food from reefs.
Reefs are natural nurseries for many ocean species, and wherever the tiny ones live, the big ones search. Another plus is the great diversity of species you’ll find near a reef.

8. The Circle Hook

Circle hooks are widely used by deep sea fishers. They’re a type of fishing hook that is circular, sharply curved. The circle hook has a greater success rate at hooking fish, and it does less damage to gills and fins. So, if you want to catch and throw back, you’re more likely to help your catch survive the adventure.

9. Don’t be dragged down by your anchor

Eventually, most deep sea fishing will involve an anchor stuck at the ocean floor or on debris. There are several tricks you can try to retrieve that anchor. Try attaching a float to it, then wait until the tide flow changes direction. It may well float up with the tide. If you’re worried about time, an anchor line that is straight up and down is more likely to loose the anchor than one at an angle. If it’s really stuck, have everyone aboard move to one end of the boat. Changing the weight distribution may well pull that anchor loose or make it easier to pull up. Finally, it’s a good idea to carry an extra anchor. If you have to cut one off to free yourself, you’ll have a replacement at hand.

10. Catching bait is catching game

If you’re intent on catching your own live bait, remember that you’re likely to find game fish in the same area. After all, the big ones will be after the same bait you are.

The Kona coast on the Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for Pacific blue marlin fishing. Considered the marlin capital of the world, it is home to the blue marlin, a spectacular sword-billed fighting fish. The largest marlin ever caught here weighed over 1,800 pounds!!

Besides marlin, Kona waters are rich with ahi–yellowfin tuna, sword fish, mahimahi, spearfish, aku–skipjack tuna, and ono (wahoo) one of the fastest fish in the ocean. Fish are plentiful year-round but are more numerous in the summer months.

Kona has more than 100 charter fishing boats,and 300 days of sun, making it an excellent place for sports fishing. Most boats leave from Honokohau Harbor, just north of Kailua-Kona. In addition to sunny skies, these fishing grounds boast warm, deep waters, and the ability to hook up a marlin just a short ways from shore.

If you go down to the docks, you can see charter boats returning around 11 a.m. from the morning charters and again around 3:00 in the afternoon. Most boats will fly flags indicating their catch. White flags indicate ahi, blue flags marlin, and inverted flags indicate a catch-and-release trip.

Mornings generally offer the best conditions. Most deep sea fishermen chartering out of Kona are novices, and most charter fishing boats will provide all the necessary fishing gear included in the cost. You can join a charter with others,or, if you have a total of six people in your party, you can charter the boat for yourselves. Remember that most boats do not include food or drink. So, take a lunch and something to drink. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, held annualy in Kona, however, is a different story. This is the premier event in the world for deep sea sports fishing, with competitors from all over the world. It may not be the best week for a novice fisherman to find a boat for hire, but it is an exciting time. In addition to the competitions, other festivities occur throughout the week. This is the highlight of the year for Hawaii charter fishing.

2006 marks the 47th year of this non-profit tournament. From July 24-28, competitive teams will
gather, lured by the thrill of hooking a prized Pacific blue marlin. For five days, Kailua pier will be the hub of activity. Each day, dozens of boats will line up just outside Kailua Bay awaiting the 7:00 a.m. signal to begin fishing, as a sea of anglers prepare for the thrill of big game tournament fishing.

In order to assure an ongoing supply of these large fish, most Pacific blue marlin are returned to the sea. Thanks to the tournament’s tag-and-release rules, which were implemented in 1986, most catches are tagged with a transponder and then released. The Billfish Association and the Pacific Ocean Research Foundation have been working together to make sure that future generations can enjoy the thrill of deep-sea fishing with an adequate supply of game.

The Kona coast of Hawaii’s Big Island is certainly an exciting place for world-class marlin fishing.

Deep Sea Fishing is one amazing experience that can be a very memorable one for you and your fishing mates. However, it is an activity that is often not maximized. What most people don’t know is that there is much more to deep sea fishing than fishing itself. It’s really sad that trips like these are often not maximized.

To not commit such a common mistake, here are some of the ways that you can maximize your deep sea fishing trip to make it an even more momentous and enjoyable one!

Understand The Signs

Enjoying the sea itself and the wildlife around you is often overlooked by deep sea trippers. Try to be watchful of what nature around you is telling you. If you can see birds, like gulls or other sea birds that are hovering over a specific area of water, then heed on it.

There is a big probability that there are smaller fishes usually used by fishermen as bait somewhere in that area. This could imply that there is yet another big probability that there would be bigger fishes beneath that area of water. Try following these simple hints and indications and for sure you’d be having a catch in no time!

Be Watchful

You may also want to be on the watch for snooks during your trip. Try to look under ledges since this is one of their favourite hiding places. In fact, they have a similar behaviours and habits with bass.

If It’s A Full Moon, Do It The Crab Way

During full moons, crabs usually shed off their skins. So if you’ll be deep sea fishing on a full moon night, you could try making use of soft crab imitations as your bait. Doing this would definitely entice the stripers from their hiding places to go look out for the crabs.

Want Some Tuna? Get A Dolphin!

If you’ll be fishing out for tuna, especially yellowfins, one good way to locate them is follow where the dolphins are. Tuna usually school with dolphins, which is why if ever you see dolphins there is a really big probability that some tuna school would not be that far away.

However, it is vital to take note that you should be careful not to land on a dolphin even by accident, because dolphins are protected species, which should be treated with some respect.

Don’t Go Solo

Let’s face it, going solo with any kind of activity is not that always fun. This is just the same with deep sea fishing. So, if you really want to make something out of your trip, such as priceless memories and enjoyable moments, then you should try spending the trip with some friends or family.

Battle Sea Sickness

If you have sea sickness or motion sickness, then a fishing trip can be a not so enjoyable activity for you. However, you should not let this hamper you from enjoying such great experience. That is why you should battle it.

If this is your problem, try looking at the horizon. It might sound ironic and silly, but you should try to stay up on deck as long as you can; doing this can make it easier for you to adjust with the boat’s motion. Additionally, staying away from fumes is advisable, since they could make you feel even worse.

Inshore fishing on Virginia Beach charter boats may include trips for striped bass, sea bass, and both red and black drum while offshore fishing charters target tuna, sharks, dolphin, billfish and other species. The area is world famous for its saltwater fishing.

One well known fisherman is Captain Keith Harlan who fishes the Mega Bite out of Virginia Beach. He has fished local waters from the Eastern Shore, Chesapeake Bay, and Virginia Beach to Cape Hatteras for over 30 years. Captain Keith’s vast fishing experience also includes the waters of Barbados, Turks and Caicos, Bahamas, Bermuda, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Key West.

In the summer months, offshore fishing from Virginia Beach is excellent. Captain Keith described Virginia offshore fishing saying, “Nothing is etched in stone with fishing around here but chasing yellowfin tuna thru much of the summer is our main activity”. These tuna like deeper water for the most part, often being caught in water from 30 to 100 fathoms. “We watch the satellite shots to get a general idea of how far north or south the tuna are” explained the Captain.

Fishing spots include the Norfolk Canyon, Cigar, Weather Buoy, Wayne’s World and others. These hotspots range up to 75 miles out of Rudee Inlet. In addition to yellowfin tuna, anglers catch bluefin, bigeye, skipjack and longfin albacore tuna, dolphin fish, wahoo, billfish and sharks.

Of interest to many anglers are the trips that reach the Norfolk Canyon. Just before reaching the canyon walls are slopes that are often very productive areas. Near the canyon walls, the bottom becomes steeper and rockier. Fish congregate along the drop offs to catch food that is caught in the hard running current. Along the edges are lobster traps which are marked by orange buoys or “lobster balls”. The buoys attract dolphin fish which in turn attract the larger marlin, swordfish and sharks which feed on them heavily. A trip by a buoy can be uneventful, or one or more lines might be attacked by mahi mahi, tuna, marlin or other fish.

Late August and September often feature the best fishing with anglers seeing larger numbers of tuna as well as an influx of wahoo and bull dolphin. Offshore fishing continues into October, when windy weather and falling water temperatures make fishing less productive.

After the offshore season winds down, Virginia anglers enjoy excellent striped bass fishing. Known locally as rockfish, these delicious fish migrate down the East Coast and congregate in the lower Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters from November thru March. Anglers sometimes catch monster rockfish, exceeding 50 lbs. The Virginia state record rockfish has been broken many times recently, with some of the biggest fish being caught out of Virginia Beach Virginia.

These beautiful gamefish love cold and windy weather and feed in immense schools along the coast. Local charter boat captains such as Captain Keith of the Mega Bite keep watch on local fishing and are usually able to find the fish reliably when a winter weather window of opportunity becomes available.

Deep sea fishing isn’t the same as fishing from the shores of a placid lake full of small school of fish. If you are looking for adventure fishing, then the deep blue ocean waters provide more exploratory courses. Deep sea fishing isn’t just pampering your mental faculties but also being physically strong. Fishing enthusiasts venture out at sea with perfectly coordinated captain and crew of a boat also called a charter. An entire group can take a voyage into the deep blue sea, ride the waves and smell and hunt exotic species of fish. And return to the coast with some prized catch!

One of the favorite areas, where one can have the pleasure of indulging in whale watching, diving and catching fish with proper and safe charters is the Gulf of Mexico. The kingfish, tuna, Spanish mackerel are hunted often in these waters. There are many chartering companies that permit people from any corner of the world to rent or charter boats and have a deep sea tour. These tours vary depending on the fishing areas and fishing event. Most of the charter companies navigate the course of the adventure trip for amateurs. Regular, experienced and professionals know where they can find a good catch. A boat can be chartered for specific periods. Day and night adventures are possible also. Shark hunting is ideal on dark nights. Deep sea fishing charters are big business in coastal areas where one can get a variety of species of the aquatic kingdom.

In ever increasing numbers, fishermen from the novice to the experienced are finding the excitement and adventure of deep-sea fishing easily available in the waters off Sea Isle, New Jersey. With almost year-round fishing opportunities, it remains to simply choose the best time to book a boat or charter. Because of the unique cross flows of the Delaware River, the Hudson River, and the Gulf Stream, a nice variety of fish are attracted to this area. Closer in to shore, you can catch blue fish, striped bass, fluke, and weakfish, to name a few, and there are those who choose to surf fish right from the shore lines of selected beaches.

If you really want the opportunity to be out on the water and go where the bigger boys are, you’ll want to connect with one of the many fishing boats for hire. You can book 1/2 day, 3/4 day, all day or 23 hour night time trips, depending on what you are hoping to catch and how far you are willing to travel. For many fishermen, the excursion is its own reward. For others, the opportunity to do battle with a giant tuna, a swordfish, or mahi-mahi is a challenge like no other.

Families with children can enjoy and afford ocean fishing. As fishermen know, landing a big fish isn’t always about size and strength as much as it is skill and technique. Bluefish usually run up to about 15 pounds, but they do not give in easily. Caught by jigging (dropping un-baited hook and reeling in as fast as possible) or by bait fishing, they will keep even an experienced angler busy. Practiced, professional crews will assist with all aspects, including cleaning and filleting. Bring your own food, beverages, suntan lotion, and of course, a camera to show you with your trophies. You may also want to bring a cooler to store fish that you plan to bring home for a tasty fish fry.

Are you looking for a little more excitement? How about heading out to sea in the late afternoon, catching a few winks in the clean, air-conditioned bunkrooms, and then, sometime around midnight, rising to wage war with the bigger warriors of the deep. In the fall, tuna runs can produce fish anywhere from 25 lbs – 100+ lbs. A tuna is an amazing, unrelenting fighter. It will definitely give you an experience you will always remember. In addition, swordfish have been brought in weighing up to 250 lbs as well as the great tasting mahi-mahi that weighs in at about 20 lbs.

Your fishing experience will last through the night hours until dawn. Coming back to shore is a leisurely boat ride, savoring the recent evening adventures. Be sure to bring a blanket or sleeping bag and pillow. Fishing equipment is rented and bait is provided. Whether you want a family vacation or a weekend away with the guys, deep sea fishing off Sea Isle, New Jersey will offer a unique experience you will remember for years to come.

Tuna fishing off the coast of Maine is immensely popular, with thousands of anglers heading out on chartered trips and privately owned boats each year in search of that once in a lifetime catch. Maine is not renowned for having a varied tuna population, with the bluefin being the only native species. However, bluefin tuna are highly sought after, particularly due to their immense size, power and swimming abilities. Once hooked, few fish will provide as big a challenge as a several hundred pound bluefin tuna.

As their name suggests, bluefin tuna have a dark blue coloring on top, graduating to silver along their sides and belly. Bluefin tuna have two dorsal fins, a single anal fin and numerous partial fins along its back and underside. Their bodies built for speed, with a streamlined shape and powerful tail. Bluefin tuna are renowned for their speed and power, giving anglers lucky enough to hook one the fight of a lifetime. In terms of size, large adult bluefin can reach lengths of up to twelve feet and tip the scales at well over one thousand pounds. More typical examples are around the eight foot mark and weigh in at nearer six hundred pounds.

Large bluefin tuna are fairly solitary fish, often traveling alone or in very small, dispersed groups. Smaller bluefin’s tend to travel in schools which may contain anywhere up to forty fish. Bluefin tuna are migratory fish, and are typically found off the coast of Maine between early summer and late fall. The best months for fishing are reputed to be between August and October.

Bluefin tuna can be caught using a variety of methods, with trolling and baitfish both widely successful. Popular baits for both techniques include squid and mackerel. Chumming with herring is also popular, particularly later in the season when attempting to land bigger fish. Given the size and power of these fish, heavy duty equipment is required to land them. Custom-built, harnessed rods coupled with 130 class reels and 200 pound test lines are not uncommon, and will suffice for the majority of bluefin present in Maine’s waters.

Catching a big bluefin tuna is largely about being in the right place at the right time. Tuna can be found at any distance from the shore, though the majority of chartered vessels travel some ten to thirty miles off the coast. Bluefin tuna can be found throughout Maine’s waters, though there are popular locations such as Jeffrey’s Ledge which are favored by many anglers.

In many parts, bluefin tuna are considered to be the ultimate game fish. Their large size coupled with the ability to swim at speeds approaching fifty miles an hour makes the bluefin tuna an exciting prospect for anglers. Add to that several-hour long fights, and you have probably the ultimate fishing challenge available in Maine.

If you are one for deep sea fishing, the best way you can make the most of the sport is to charter a boat for a deep sea fishing trip. Deep sea fishing charters are great fun when you go in a group. There are many advantages for group charters and the economics is just one of them. When on a deep sea charter with a lot of fellow anglers you will find that you will have a lot more fun, and even catch more fish.

Many deep sea fishing charter companies allow you to choose between renting a boat and making it out to sea by yourself or you may charter a bat and go on a guided tour for a couple of days out at sea. Chartered tours for deep sea fishing vary in length and the kind of events they sail into. Deep sea fishing charters are contracted by different people for many reasons, though mostly for fishing, some people like to take them out for whale watching too. Many people just go out to sea for some good diving and swimming. If you have the luck of the devil, as I have had on a couple of occasions, you will be able to do all these on one trip.

Many people cannot wait to get out to sea in their deep sea charter. There are many charter boats designed for specific fishing, so if you are angling to catch a shark make sure you have the right boat, and probably the right guide, preferably one who can dive in and pull you out of the drink in time. Yea, there are precautions you should take for your deep sea fishing trip. Deep sea charter fishing is nothing like fishing at the lake of river. Here the fish are invariably bigger than you and can pull you into their domain if you are not cautious enough. So get the macho image off and get your seat belt on while you hold the hook and sinker r in the sea. Many accidents have happened, with anglers joining the Piscean species in the sea because they throw caution to the wind.

If you are out on a deep sea charter from a reputed company, you will no doubt have access to the best advice at sea. Many deep sea charter boat companies subscribe to news feeds that keep them up to date on where the best game is and how fast to get there. So while you are at a location at sea and having little or no luck, a news flash on the radio will inform the captain where to go and what kind of fish to expect.

If you are hunting shark you will best get out to sea at night. Because of the calmness of the sea at night many anglers have much better luck than when they fish in the daytime. However, many anglers cannot stand the eeriness of the sea at night and prefer to try their luck when the sun comes out.

The prices will vary of course. So, try to do a bit of research and get the best deep sea fishing charter for your trip. If you join a group, it will work out more economical and fun.

Deep Sea Fish

Introduction:

Deep sea fish is the term given to fishes that live below the photic zone of the ocean. The types of deep sea fish are lantern fish, flashlight fish, cookie cuter shark, bristle mouths, anglerfish and viperfish, hatchet, gulper eel and whale. The endangered species of deep sea include blue hyke, spiny eel, spiny tail skate, round nose grenadier and onion-eye grenadier. They are on the verge of extinction due to the shift of commercial fisheries from the continental slopes to continental shelves area up to 6000 meters. Another contributing factor is the slow reproduction of these fishes.

Habitat:

The photic zone lies few hundred meters below the water; this region is not much explored. This fishes are weird and most mysterious species on Earth. Although they have evolved in harsh climate, they don’t survive in laboratory conditions and so they are still unknown. Less amount of research has been done about them as the expenses of equipments for exploring deep sea is high. They are recognized by their scientific names as only scientists know about them. Many species in the deep sea emit lights called luminescent which attracts other fish.

Apart from these they live under high pressure and the climate is very cold here. The water has high quantity of nutrients which are obtained from the accumulated wastes sinking form the high level. Oxygen content in this water is high which is about 5-6%.

There is very less light reaching this surface of the earth and so the process of photosynthesis does not take place. They survive on the organic matter that sinks on from higher surface. These areas are poor in productivity. So the fishes here have jelly-like flesh and have a minimal bone structure.

Adaptations

In order to survive from the predators, they use the technique of Camouflage in which they merge into the surroundings. Some animals allow the light to pass through them and become transparent. Whereas the fishes that are black colored could easily escape in the darkness. These fishes live in areas where there is no natural light available, so they cannot rely on the eyes for feeding and mating. They have adapted to darkness by large eyes known as bioluminescent or feelers which help them to locate their mates.

Types of Deep sea fishes:

Lantern fish:

It accounts for 65% of all the deep sea biomass. Their length varies between 3cm to 35 cm and has a pattern of photophores all down the body. It swims to the top to catch the prey. These fishes if are brought above to the surface they cannot survive and their organs and eyes will explode.

Whales: They dive in deep sea in search of prey

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Viperfish: It is one of the scariest fish found in deep sea. It has long sharp clear teeth and light is used to catch their prey.

Hatchet: It possesses light that grabs the attention of their prey.

Gulper eels: They have a huge head and mouth to gulp their prey easily. They have elastic stomachs help them to eat large fishes.

If you’re going for a deep sea fishing trip, one great destination would be Miami. This city is filled to the brim with numerous thrilling entertainment opportunities. Starting from its immaculate white sand beaches up to its world class museums, Miami would never run out of activities to cater you.

Nevertheless, one of the most popular activities in Miami would be deep sea fishing. It is an exquisite spot for such an activity because of the “Gulf stream”, which is a river that is part of the Atlantic Ocean originating from the Gulf of Mexico’s warm currents.

The slightly warmer currents of this stream are actually utilized as a highway for different kinds of migrating fish. You can choose from a great variety of fishes, small or big. The most popular choices include: pan fishes, big game fishes, kingfish, and sailfish. These and many more are prevalent in Miami’s turquoise waters.

Although there’s a lot of deep sea fishing charters that are available coming from Ft. Lauderdale going to Miami, there are those that stand out, which have credible reputations for class, comfort and catch!

Reel Adventure Charters

First off is Reel Adventure Charters; in which you have “Spellbound”, a 56 ft charter fishing boat. It is considered to be the number 1 charter fishing boat around Miami Beach, for whatever kind of fishing activity you are into; whether it be light tackle fishing, deep sea charter to big game fishing.

From the docks of Reel Adventure Charters, you’ll be in the Gulf Stream in no time! In fact it only takes about 10 minutes travel time to go to the stream. This advantage in distance makes their record for big catches quite an impressive one.

Charters are very comfortable, usually with a maximum of 6 people. If you’ll be having a party of 2 or 3 only, you can then arrange for “split charters”. They provide you with everything you need, except for your drinks and food.

Sea Cross Sportfishing

If you want a charter with the best modern gadgets and comfort, then the Sea Cross would be perfect for you. Their Custom Rigged Hatteras Sportfishing Yacht would definitely amaze you with all their amenities, such as live well, outriggers, full air conditioning, top-of-the-line tackle and rods, and state of the art electronic gadgets. In fact, they are fully specked and ready to travel anywhere starting from the Florida Keys up to the Bahamas!

They can definitely make your fishing dreams true! They have specialist personnel that have the skills necessary for you to find exactly whatever it is you are looking for. They specialize in all kinds of fishing adventures, such as tarpon to sailfish. They also provide services like long range weekend trips, split charters, multi-boat charters, corporate charters, and night fishing.

Free Spool Sportfishing

Situated at Miami Beach’s north end, Haulover Bay, you can find Free Spool. Their captain, a premiere fishing guide in Miami area, has been helping people to fish since 1986. Whether you’re interested in fishing the reef, shallows, or off-shore, He could bring you there.

Keys and Bahamas trips can also be arranged. However, they do not have “split charters”, meaning once you book for the boat, you would have it all for yourself; no more fishing with strangers. They can arrange full or half day charters, for a maximum of 4 people. So if you are looking for a really exquisite adventure with an expert “old school” captain, try out Free Spool!

Deep sea fishing can be an exciting adventure indeed, especially for those who love fishing and the ocean. Here are a few pointers to help you find and hook the right sort of game the next time you go deep sea fishing:

Keep an eye out for telltale signs: When out on the ocean, if you spot seagulls swooping down to pick up small bait-type fish, you know there are bigger game-type fish hunting and driving these fish into tight balls near the surface.

In certain cases, you will even find larger fish swimming near floating wood or debris. Generally, the best place to fish for big game fish is near reefs. This is because these larger fish prey on the fish that live in the reef.

Oftentimes, fishermen try to catch live bait-fish near the reef and head to deeper waters in the hopes catching the big ones. However, this tactic rarely proves successful and it’s recommended to fish around the edges of reefs.

Type of Fishing rods and hook: Using lighter fishing rods out in rivers, streams, lakes and even surf fishing is fine, but when you go fishing in the ocean for larger fish like marlin, large sea bass, shark, tuna and stripers, you will need a much stronger rod that can take the weight of the fish, withstand the time it takes to catch one and handle the struggle between fish and fisherman.

This is why it’s not surprising to see fisherman opting for graphite fishing rods which are relatively light yet extremely strong and durable for heavy duty fishing. Although graphite is also used to make fishing rods for other types of fishing, deep sea fishing rods made out of graphite are much longer, wider and denser. The only downside to graphite fishing rods is that they are not as flexible, which is why some fishermen also use relatively less durable but strong, light and flexible fiberglass fishing rods for deep sea fishing.

As far as hooks are concerned, circle hooks are best suited for deep sea fishing. Circle hooks translate into more catches since they have a minute gap and a reverse point. Such hooks are also better for the fish because they hook the fish in the lip and not in the gut, causing minimum suffering.

Popular Catches: Snooks are a popular fish among deep sea fishermen and these can be found swimming around rocks, ledges and posts. Another popular type of fish are Stripers and the best time to go fishing for these is at the full moon when they are hunting for crabs who have just shed their shells.

A great way to catch these is to use crab imitations as bait. Yet another popular deep sea fishing fish is the yellow fin tuna. These are often found schooling with dolphins, so if you spot a dolphin group, you may find some tuna swimming in the area as well.

The aforementioned are a few tips that will help enhance your deep sea fishing experience. So go ahead, head into the open seas and strap yourself in for a fun filled roller coaster ride!

If it’s your first time to go for a deep sea fishing trip, there are some essential things to know to make it a fun-filled and successful one. Here are some of the key points when having a deep sea fishing trip.

Overlooked Things To Bring

For sure fishing equipment, food and clothing are the ones that are always remembered by people to bring on a deep sea fishing trip. However, there’s still some other stuff that a lot of people overlook bringing with them to a trip.

One good example would be a cooler. Bringing one with some ice, icepacks or even frozen water bottles are very important, since this is what you’ll use to retain the freshness of your catch and keep it cold.

Another one would be spare cash. Other than being vital for emergencies, you would need this just in case you get the biggest fish and you would have to get in on the pool. You also need this for mate tipping purposes for providing you help throughout your excursion.

Also seasickness medicine would be important too. Dramamine is one effective solution for that problem. For those who are already used to boats, this kind of problem may seldom be encountered. However, it would still be beneficial if you pack a small first aid kit. Try to bring band-Aids, stomach medicine, tissues, and disinfectants in the kit, just so in case minor injuries occur during the trip.

Best Locations For A Deep Sea Fishing Trip

Some of the best locations to have a deep sea fishing trip are: Bodega Bay and San Diego in California; Wildwood, or Cape May in New Jersey; Boston and Cape Cod in Massachusetts; Daytona Beach, Destin, Key West and Miami in Florida; Freeport, Galveston and Port Aransas in Texas; Gloucester in Maine; Ocean City in Maryland; and Point Pleasant in New Jersey.

These spots can give you a variety of fish to catch. They also offer you different views and experiences with nature. Each spot can have their own pro’s and con’s, however, one thing’s for sure they are great deep sea fishing spots!

General Deep Sea Fishing Overview

In general, a deep-sea fishing trip could last about four to eight hours, or more depending on how long you want it to be. You can arrange trips with your charter or party boast in the morning or afternoon. In fact, if you have a special occasion, you can even schedule evening trips. You can also do this if you’re the night owl type that might not be back to shore even until wee hours of the morning.

If you’re having one of these late night trips, especially during the colder months bringing a thermos that is full to the brim with steaming tea, hot chocolate or coffee would be a great way to keep yourselves alert and warm during the trip.

Freebies On The Side

The great thing with deep sea fishing is that sometimes you can get freebies on the side. Other than the adventure of being out in the waters, you may be graced with the appearance of some dolphins too. There are cases in which you can also have a glimpse of sea birds that are chasing each other playfully. However, the situation would not always be like this, since factors like location, weather, time of the day and how many people you are with on your boat could affect whether you’d see such blessings.

Cape Town offers some of the finest Deep Sea Fishing in the world. The warm Agulhas current of the Indian Ocean meets the cold Benguela current of the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Point, the most southern most tip of the Cape Peninsula. Fuelled by seasonal upwelling along the west coast, this incredibly productive system produces huge numbers of bait fish, which in turn attract large numbers of pelagic as well as coastal game fish.

Professional charter services with experienced skippers and crew are available for big game fishing, game fishing and pelagic birdwatching. Deep Sea Fishing can be enjoyed all year round in Cape Town with Yellowfin tuna usually arriving in large numbers between March and June and again from October to December. These fish can weigh between 50 and 120kg and are found in the deep waters so tuna fishing usually takes a full day. Other species include Longfin tuna, Yellow Tail, Cape Salmon, Swordfish, the odd Marlin and the occasional dorado.

Cape Snoek are available during the winter months. This underrated game fish moves into our waters in huge quantities during the months of May to September. These fish are generally found at depths of around 15-20 meters and are generally in the 5-7kg class. This fishing is for everyone including complete novices.

Cape Town waters are home to a number of difference cetaceans such as common dolphins, dusky dolphins, Southern Right Whales, Humpback whales, Bryde’s whales and Killer Whales (Orca). Mako and blue sharks are often encountered as well as Cape Fur seals and coastal and pelagic seabirds including numerous species of species.

Two Oceans Sport Fishing Charters:

They operate out of the Simon’s Town waterfront and offer conventional as well as fly fishing charters. They currently hold the record for the largest yellowfin tuna taken on fly- weighing in at 76kgs. They are affiliated to Cape Town Tourism and captain Dave Christie is IGFA certified and a qualified marine biologist.

Their boat, Obsession, is a cutom built 30 foot catamaran sport fisher, powered by twin 200 Hp four stroke outboards and capable of doing 40 knots under calm conditions. Obsession is very well equipped with top quality Penn International and Shimano tackle and has an enclosed onboard loo.

Obsession undergoes an annual safety survey by the South Africa Maritime Safety Authority and carries all safety equipment onboard at all times, she is licenced to carry 12 passengers. Radio contact is maintained with coastal radio stations throughout the day, providing a safe and enjoyable charter. A light lunch and refreshments are included.

Hooked on Africa Fishing Charters

They operate from Hout Bay Harbour and International Game Fish Association certified Captain Sean Amor has been fishing the Cape Town waters for over 25 years.

Hooked on Africa Fishing Charters has a fleet of customized charter fishing vessels, personally skippered by professional and qualified guides with years of experience about local conditions and the species they catch, ensuring that your every need is catered for.

Hooked On Africa offers conventional deep sea fishing as well as off-shore flyfishing.

Like their boats, skippers and track record, Hooked on Africa does not compromise on tackle but rather supplies you the angler, with equipment suitable for the species you are targeting. Only PENN INTERNATIONAL and SHIMANO reels are used for most of the targeted species giving you the angler a fair advantage and the fish a fair chance. By replacing IGFA rated lines on a regular basis and by using tried and tested lures they feel you have a chance of turning dreams into reality!

Source: Deap Sea Fishing Cape Town

Deep Sea Fishing is one amazing experience that can be a very memorable one for you and your fishing mates. However, it is an activity that is often not maximized. What most people don’t know is that there is much more to deep sea fishing than fishing itself. It’s really sad that trips like these are often not maximized.

To not commit such a common mistake, here are some of the ways that you can maximize your deep sea fishing trip to make it an even more momentous and enjoyable one!

Understand The Signs

Enjoying the sea itself and the wildlife around you is often overlooked by deep sea trippers. Try to be watchful of what nature around you is telling you. If you can see birds, like gulls or other sea birds that are hovering over a specific area of water, then heed on it.

There is a big probability that there are smaller fishes usually used by fishermen as bait somewhere in that area. This could imply that there is yet another big probability that there would be bigger fishes beneath that area of water. Try following these simple hints and indications and for sure you’d be having a catch in no time!

Be Watchful

You may also want to be on the watch for snooks during your trip. Try to look under ledges since this is one of their favourite hiding places. In fact, they have a similar behaviours and habits with bass.

If It’s A Full Moon, Do It The Crab Way

During full moons, crabs usually shed off their skins. So if you’ll be deep sea fishing on a full moon night, you could try making use of soft crab imitations as your bait. Doing this would definitely entice the stripers from their hiding places to go look out for the crabs.

Want Some Tuna? Get A Dolphin!

If you’ll be fishing out for tuna, especially yellowfins, one good way to locate them is follow where the dolphins are. Tuna usually school with dolphins, which is why if ever you see dolphins there is a really big probability that some tuna school would not be that far away.

However, it is vital to take note that you should be careful not to land on a dolphin even by accident, because dolphins are protected species, which should be treated with some respect.

Don’t Go Solo

Let’s face it, going solo with any kind of activity is not that always fun. This is just the same with deep sea fishing. So, if you really want to make something out of your trip, such as priceless memories and enjoyable moments, then you should try spending the trip with some friends or family.

Battle Sea Sickness

If you have sea sickness or motion sickness, then a fishing trip can be a not so enjoyable activity for you. However, you should not let this hamper you from enjoying such great experience. That is why you should battle it.

If this is your problem, try looking at the horizon. It might sound ironic and silly, but you should try to stay up on deck as long as you can; doing this can make it easier for you to adjust with the boat’s motion. Additionally, staying away from fumes is advisable, since they could make you feel even worse.

It can sound weird but a comprehensive knowledge on tides and their effect on your fishing area can actually pay big dividends. In fact, it is considered to be one key to being successful in the realm of deep sea fishing, by the experts. A lot of fishing guides and charter-boat captains know this secret. They even make close studies on currents, tides, and how they would affect fishing on their areas.

The Unknown Secret

However, sad to say, that a lot of informal deep sea anglers actually pay very little attention to such important details. In fact, some anglers don’t pay attention at all! And then they would wonder how come the other guy catches all the fish and they don’t. Nevertheless, there are still those who realize that somehow tides can affect their fishing. However, they do not know exactly how and why this happens.

These anglers usually waste their precious hours trolling, casting and sinker bouncing even when the tide is not right. However, the deep sea angler who knows his tides could pick in advanced the most favourable fishing periods and concentrate on his efforts during those times. This simply means you can have less of those wasted days and get more fish on your deep sea fishing trips.

Getting Started

You don’t have to delve into tide’s science here, except to point out that tides are due to the gravitational forces that are brought about the sun and moon. Since the moon is nearer earth, it has greater influence with tides than the sun.

Types Of Tides

Every time the tide is up, water would move towards land, which is also known as “flood tide”. On occasions that tides drop, moving its way back to sea, is called “ebb tide”. The period in which it doesn’t move either way is termed as the “slack tide”. It usually takes a period of 6 hours for it to rise, and 6 to get low. For every 24 hours these tides occur 50 minutes later than the last, approximately.

Variations

They also vary in regards to the degrees that they drop or rise. The highest tides occur when the sun and moon are situated on Earth’s same side, creating a direct line. Such kind of tide is called “spring tide”, which occur during new-moon and full-moon periods.

During these times, both low and high tides are higher than their usual state. However, during the last and first quarter phases of the moon, tides don’t fall or rise or fall that much. This is called as “neap tides”.

Which Is Which

So which of theses tides are helpful and which are not? To start off, most experts believe that moving tides or currents are most of the time more productive than having no currents or tides. Thus, a “slack” tide would rarely produce good catch.

Using The Tides At The Right Time

You can take advantage of tides even more by knowing when to go. The period in which an incoming tide starts is considered to be one of the productive periods for fishing, especially if you are targeting for gamesters like bluefish, striped bass, channel bass, and weakfish.

During the periods of slack water, the small bait fishes tend to scatter, and having a lack of strong currents they are able to swim faster and escape their predators.

However, when tides start moving, such small bait fishes are at the strong rips and current’s mercy. Thus, they are easier to catch and find by stripers and other kinds of game fish. When an outgoing tide starts is yet another good time do fish, simply for the same logic. In general, the popular change of tide, whether it be low or high, is actually the best time to do your fishing.

Warranambool is located in Victoria and is a popular place for deep sea fishing and whale watching. In fact, Warranambool is called Victoria’s Southern Right Whale Nursery. The whales swim within 100 hundred meters of the shore so you can hire a fishing charter and see the whales in all their glory. You can also hire a deep sea fishing charter, as the waters around the area offers a wide variety of reef fish that include squid, snapper, gummy shark, morwong, and couta, just to name a few. Here are few tips and guidelines while choosing a fishing charter.

• The first thing to consider is what you need the charter for.? Are you looking at a day of whale watching? Or are you aiming for the big catch of the day? Or specifically interested in tuna fishing in Victoria? Your needs will dictate the terms of your fishing charter. You may find some fishing charters that specifically carter to whale watching and some that will help you with deep sea fishing.

• If it’s fishing you’re looking at, you need to evaluate your skill and level of competence. You will find fishing charters specially for first timers and some that are meant for more experienced fisherman. Some people consider fishing to be their time with themselves away from the family! While some think it’s a great way to spend time with the family. In Warranambool, you will find fishing charters for family outgoings and solitary fishing experiences! So pick one accordingly and you are sure to have a more enjoyable experience.

• Are you looking for a particular type of fish? Is it a snapper, or has tuna fishing in Victoria piqued your interest? You can find fishing charters that specialise in particular species of fish that makes things a lot easier for you and you are sure to find what you are looking for!

• While considering your options, ask the locals for recommendations. You can also read some travel blogs and see what other travellers like you have to say and what they recommend. It is also a good idea to visit bait shops, the marina and stores that sell fishing goods for some leads.

• Meet with the captains of the shortlisted charters and ask them about the trip and services they have to offer. Have a look at the charter; is it a vessel that looks comfortable and one that you will be comfortable to travel on? Make sure the deep fishing charter you choose is safe and in good condition.

• Price is another important aspect of hiring a fishing charter. You don’t want to exhaust your holiday fund on one fishing trip! So find a charter that is well priced. Peak season rates will be higher than usual. Also make sure you find out about the deposit amount and terms and conditions of the rental.

When it comes to selecting a deep sea charter, there are numerous factors to consider. Not only do you want to find a charter that is reputable and professional, you also want to look for one that will meet your individual needs. This means that before you even make preparations to spend a day on the open water, you should decide what it is that you specifically want from the experience.

On the other hand, high speed trolling is a very popular option for more experienced anglers who may not have all of their own equipment to go out on an expedition of their own. High speed trolling is best done during the summer months, when conditions are optimal to catch larger game fish, such as bull dolphin, yahoo, and sailfish.

One of the best things you can do when searching for a charter that will meet your needs is to ask the captain up front what it is they offer. You certainly don’t want to waste your time and money on an expedition that is not suited to your needs. Many charter services are very up front about the different options they offer. As a result, you can determine which type of charter is the best fit for your individual needs.

After you decide what type of specific experience you want, you should determine how much you are willing to pay for the charter. For smaller boats (that typically hold between two to four people, prices typically start at around $200 -– $400. To hire a bigger boat for an all-day fishing excursion, you’re looking at between $900- and $1,200. Another important factor to consider is the reputation of the charter.

Search online if you need to find out more about fishing charters in Warranambool or are looking to hire a deep sea fishing charter. For more info visit our website www.southerncoastcharters.com.au.